Tuesday, June 12, 2012

GT Fish & Oyster

April 15, 2012
531 N. Wells St., Chicago, IL 60654
GT Fish & Oyster on Urbanspoon

A Quick Word:
GT Fish & Oyster is definitely one of the better seafood restaurants in Chicago focusing on the small plate style of food.  They have a huge variety and everything is extremely fresh.  I rate this restaurant so highly not only because of their delicious food, but also because of their daily 10pm special... Anytime after 10pm, the oysters are half off and still AMAZING.  Definitely a must try!

What I Ate:


A Dozen Oysters (Variety)

A nice sampler of the day's fresh selection. I personally do not know much about oysters, so having a variety I was able to compare the difference flavors of each oyster. Unfortunately I do not know which oysters we ordered but I do remember that the waitress was very knowledgable and helped in the decision making process. By the way, their homemade cocktail sauce has a nice "bite" to it!!

Hamachi Crudo

A serving of raw fish slightly prepared with some lemons and sliced cucumber.  The fish was cut nice and thin and intermixed with the cucumber.  Having a bite with every component of the dish is a must.  I remember this dish to be extremely refreshing. Definitely a good choice... Almost like a palate cleanser for the next dish!

Baja Shrimp Bruschetta

Without question my FAVORITE DISH at this restaurant.  Who would have thought avocado cream, baja style shrimp, crushed pistachios, and red sweet jalapeƱos could make easily the best bruschetta and possibly the best two bites I've ever eaten!  The layers of flavor were incredible with a slight heat coming from the red jalapeƱos and the wonderful creaminess from the avocado.  The shrimp were cooked perfectly and the pistachios gave it the needed crunch.  This dish makes it on looks, texture, taste... A MUST HAVE!

Oyster Po' Boy Sliders

A bite of heaven! Easiest way to describe these sliders! They are mini sliders filled with a flash fried oyster, kimichi, and a garnish with peanuts.  The kimchi was definitely the "kicker"... giving it a nice pickled/spicy flavor and also a crunch.  The peanut was unnecessary so I am assuming people with allergies can ask for the sliders with peanuts.  Great recommendation by our waitress. I could only wish the portion was 5 times what it was!  Just remember, you pay per slider so the tab can add up quickly with these guys.

Smoked Salmon Gnocchi

I find myself being extremely picky with my gnocchi. Consistency was on point and the smoked salmon was delicious. This was definitely one of the more filling dishes of the night and probably one of the largest too.  They rotate their pasta option... I was disappointed they weren't offering the squid ink gnocchi but whatever they have, I suggest trying it!

Brandade Croquettes

Didn't know what they were... So we got them anyway. Turns out to be a bite with a powerful punch. Salt cod and potato mashed up and deep fried then served on a light fennel and orange salad. The croquettes were amazing... Extremely crispy and served nice and warm.  Unfortunately, the accompanying salad was too bland.

Chocolate Stout Mousse

Super rich! If you like creamy desserts... This will definitely hit the spot! I love the contrast in textures with the silk smooth mousse and the crunchy peanut brittle.  They paired well together and was a great way to end the meal.

Salted Caramel Tart

This amazing little tart. Once again there was a nice contrast in flavor... Sweet and salty! Not as rich as the chocolate dessert but definitely a dessert not to be missed!

The DOs/DON'Ts:
DO:
- Make reservations because this restaurant has been popular recently and difficult to get in.
- 10PM nightly special -- Half price oysters... Everyone should definitely take advantage of this special... it makes the oysters more affordable and allows everyone to try the different varieties!
- Do ask the waiter/waitress if there are any special oysters.  We found that one of the better oysters wasn't even listed on the menu

DON'T:
- Parking is tough, so if possible, don't drive.
- Don't expect to get extremely full.  The small plate option is wonderful, but its almost to a new extreme with some of these plates.  Wonderful and complex flavors but SMALL portions.
- Random, but don't expect to use your Discover Card... when I was there they didn't take it.

How far would I walk for this food?




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